Crockpot Tuscan Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Crockpot Tuscan Chicken is everything you need in a meal—tender chicken, creamy sauce, and bold flavors. It’s an easy, hands-off recipe that requires little prep time, and the slow cooking process ensures that the chicken comes out juicy and infused with all the Tuscan-inspired flavors. The creamy sauce made with garlic, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes gives the dish a unique depth, while the slow cooker makes everything come together effortlessly. It’s perfect for busy days when you want a delicious homemade dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you serve it with pasta, rice, or crusty bread, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp pepper
• 1 tbsp olive oil

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, and sear them for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. This step adds extra flavor to the chicken but is optional if you’re short on time.
2. Transfer the seared chicken breasts into the slow cooker.
3. In a bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, chicken broth, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes.
4. Pour the creamy mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker.
5. Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
6. About 30 minutes before the end of cooking, add the chopped spinach to the slow cooker, stirring to combine.
7. Once done, remove the chicken and serve it with the creamy sauce from the slow cooker. Enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Cooking time: 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high

Variations

• Add veggies: Include mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra flavor and texture.
• Use chicken thighs: If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs work beautifully in this recipe.
• Make it dairy-free: Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk and the Parmesan with dairy-free cheese.
• Spicy version: Add red pepper flakes for a little kick to the sauce.
• Serve with pasta: For a heartier meal, serve the chicken and creamy sauce over your favorite pasta.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover Tuscan chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the chicken and sauce in a microwave-safe dish and warm it in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but they may require a longer cooking time. Make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Can I make this recipe without searing the chicken first?

Yes, you can skip the searing step. While searing adds extra flavor, the slow cooker will still create a tender and flavorful dish without it.

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before adding it to the slow cooker.

How can I thicken the sauce if it’s too thin?

If you find the sauce too thin, you can thicken it by mixing in a little cornstarch (dissolved in water) or by cooking the sauce uncovered in the slow cooker for the last 30 minutes to reduce it.

Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce. Let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Can I add cream cheese to the sauce for extra richness?

Yes, adding a block of cream cheese to the sauce can make it even creamier and richer.

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of Parmesan?

Yes, you can use other cheeses like mozzarella or Pecorino Romano if you prefer.

Can I substitute the sun-dried tomatoes with fresh tomatoes?

Sun-dried tomatoes provide a unique, concentrated flavor, but you can use fresh tomatoes if that’s what you have on hand. Keep in mind that the flavor won’t be as intense.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth and ensure any added sides or ingredients are also gluten-free.

Can I make this recipe in the oven instead of the slow cooker?

Yes, you can bake it in the oven. Preheat the oven to 375°F, place the chicken and sauce in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake for about 25-30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.

Conclusion

This Crockpot Tuscan Chicken is the ultimate comfort food that’s easy to prepare and full of flavor. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and rich Tuscan-inspired ingredients, it’s a dish that will satisfy everyone at the table. Plus, it’s versatile enough to make with your favorite sides, whether it’s pasta, rice, or a simple salad. Whether you’re busy during the week or planning a weekend feast, this recipe is a winner every time. Enjoy the delicious taste of Italy with minimal effort!